Porto-travel-tips

Porto Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips

Before You Go

  • Research and learn some basic Portuguese phrases, such as “obrigado” (thank you), “desculpe” (excuse me), and “por favor” (please).
  • Familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions to show respect for the culture.

Respecting Local Culture

  • Dress modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting churches or historical sites.
  • Remove your shoes: In some traditional Portuguese homes, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering.
  • Use your right hand: When giving or receiving something, use your right hand as a sign of respect.

Eating and Drinking

  • Mealtimes: Lunch is typically served between 12:00-14:30, and dinner between 19:00-21:30. Avoid eating on the go or in public areas.
  • Try local food: Indulge in traditional Portuguese cuisine, such as Bacalhau à Brás (cod with potatoes and onions), Francesinha (sandwich with ham, sausage, and steak), and Porto-style tripe.
  • Wine etiquette: In Portugal, wine is an integral part of meals. When drinking wine, hold the glass by the stem, and don’t leave your wine glass empty.

Interacting with Locals

  • Greetings: Use formal titles such as “Senhor” or “Senhora” when addressing older individuals or those in positions of authority.
  • Eye contact: Maintain eye contact when speaking to someone, but avoid staring aggressively.
  • Physical touch: Avoid physical touch or public displays of affection, especially among strangers.

Visiting Historical Sites and Churches

  • Dress appropriately: Wear respectful attire when visiting churches or historical sites.
  • Remove your hat: Take off your hat or cap when entering a church or religious site.
  • Respect silence: Refrain from loud conversations or taking photos with flash inside churches or museums.

Tipping

  • Restaurants and bars: Tip around 5-10% in restaurants and bars, but only if the service was satisfactory.
  • Taxis: Round up the fare to the nearest euro or leave small change (5-10%).

Miscellaneous

  • Learn some Portuguese phrases: Show an effort to communicate in Portuguese, even if it’s just basic phrases.
  • Be mindful of siesta time: Avoid visiting businesses or homes during traditional siesta hours (usually 1:00-3:00 pm).
  • Respect the environment: Keep Porto clean by disposing of trash properly and avoiding littering.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be able to navigate Porto like a local and show respect for this beautiful city’s rich heritage.